We raised our mainsail and slipped our mooring at Francis Bay around midday, then sailed through Fungi Passage (between Whistling Cay and Mary Point) for a spanking sail in 12-15 kt Esterly (of course) winds close-hauled, initially heading towards Jost Van Dyke, then tacking when we could make it around the Eastern end of Great Thatch and into Soper’s Hole. We were met by Ash and Sue in their dinghy. They have been so kind to Howard over the past several weeks so it was a joy for the rest of the family to finally meet them.
There is no requirement to clear customs and immigration before departing the USVI but upon arrival in the BVI, our first duty was to officially check in. It is quite a process, involving several officials, paperwork, and payment and all of the crew had to be present. Furthermore, there seemed to be an incessant flow of ferries also requiring their attention. An hour or so later, we were officially back in the BVI.
After some re-provisioning at the Harbour Market (which is stocked with good Waitrose brand products and has a good deli counter), topping up our reserves of fuel for the outboard, and a short swim followed by fresh water showers off the aft deck to freshen up, we met up with Sue and Ash for dinner at Pussers Landing. Aaah, life in the islands is sooooo tough!